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What are some ways you can apply the concepts learned in this lesson in your classroom?
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Knowing God’s word and scripture is incredibly important. We can’t teach it to our kids or live it out if it isn’t inside of us. So taking the time to be in God’s word and living it out will be an example for students. Sometimes it doesn’t necessarily have to be within the content matter (although relating scripture to content is important) but also just living out God’s word and finding those opportunities for life lessons and bringing in God’s word into conversation.
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In World History, we learn about different cultures. With that comes learning about different religions. We often discuss beliefs from these various religions and compare them to scripture.
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When we speak of the centrality of Scripture, I believe we need to also speak of the sufficiency of Scripture – meaning, God’s word is sufficient to equip and guide us in all areas of life. With this in mind, I try to remember that the ultimate responsibility of a student’s discipleship rests with their parents (Deut. 6/Eph. 6) and not me. Living in this truth allows me to minister to my students free of bearing a responsibility that is not mine. I am their teacher – not their parent, and if I believe in the sufficiency/centrality of Scripture, then I will serve in my role as best as I can without attempting to cross in a role not given to me.
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The most important way to apply the concepts of this lesson in my classroom is to believe them and live them in my own life. If I am not being a living example, the students will see through me. I must make Scripture central in my life as well as my classroom. I also believe I must teach the whole counsel of God, not just pick and choose the parts I like best. Yes, I need to tailor it to the children in the age category that I teach, but not dumb it down. Some of the ways I do that are:
1. I emphasize scripture memorization in my room, especially through Scripture songs, like those sung by Steve Green on his albums “Hide ‘Em In Your Heart”
2. I treat the Word of God with respect, not tossing the Bible around casually or placing it on the floor, but handling it carefully
3. I let my students read from their Bibles for each lesson, even in second grade. As much as possible, I help them read it and the explain meaning if they do not understand.
4. I teach all students in grade 2 to memorize the names of the books of the Bible in order to help them be able to find them quickly. We use a song to help aide that process of memorization.
5. I don’t ever say things that denigrate the Bible or Jesus Christ.
6. I try to incorporate the Bible across the curriculum. -
I quote scriptures, I post scripture on my white board, I open discussions about the scripture and allow my students to engage by asking questions. This new academic year, I plan to incorporate more scripture in my lesson plans. I believe that 2 Timothy 3:14-16 is telling us Scripture is a teachers compass.